
Glass. 
Book. 



E^^ 



/ 

THE 

RESOURCES . 

OF THE 

CANADAS; 

OR 

SKETCHES 

OF THE 

PHYSICAL AND MORAL MEANS, 

Which Great Britain and her Colonial Authorities will sue* 
cessfull^ employ in securing those valuable Provinces from 
open invasion and insidious aggression, on the part of the 
Government of the United States of America. 



//r:- 



BY A QUERIST, jC^^^ ^i^//J//^ 



I Mill nM III -inriM-Tt"~-'— '^ 



"TiBi perpetu^ pace frui licerefj nisi hostes opportubi et sceleslissumi.^Frfl^. Sedlust, ly 

Iini quidem quae mMs suppetit, eloqui non dubitabo. Ceterum tui ent ingemi probare^ 

quEB vera, atque utilia factu putes, — Id. JJ[ C^i*.i^S^-^5t 
e.'rn — 

■ -i I 1 "^ ' ' ' ' • I I I I I ■ ■ I ITB . 

QUEBEC: 
PRINTED AT THE NEW PRINTING OFFICE, No. 19, BUADE STREET, 

1813. 



-^•^^^^Jte.^ii^ 




'\ 



ADVr.RTJSEMEXT. 

KTlII fj fnlhni'inp: papers iccre hcs:u)7 at a moment, icheri a rn?isi(frrd' 
/ ()/(' //( i>?<( of aliirni preidilid^ parCicularlij amon^ the liniid and 
least infurmtd part of our populalion. The xery din of preparation 
is sitffiricnt to eanfonnd iceak minds ; and those means which are eni- 
ploijed to insure their safety ha'ce the immediate effect of increasing their 
xilarm. 

It appeared to the author that something might he done to quiet 
ihose apprehensions, xiiliich often become contagions ; and he resolved 
to employ, for thai purpose j the share of leisure and information which 
/le possessed. He is not vain enough to imagine that any of his writings 
should, from intrinsic merit, have a powerful iuf.uence on the public 
onind ; but the tone of confidence, in ichich he began, was so happily 
sanctioned by the brilliani events of the last campaign, that his Sketches 
seem graduaily to have acquired some interest, from the association of 
ideas; and he conceives, that it would not be presumptuous in him in 
hope that, having thus obtained an adventitious attraction, they were 
favored with some degree of attention. 

But the advantage of appearing in a Gazette surrounded by General 
Orders, Military Dispatches and ^^ the pomp and circumstance of war,'" 
seemed more than counterbalanced by being thus exhibited to the public 
fit different times and in scattered fragments. As a temporary reparation 
of the evil, the author designed his General Recapitulation ; but he teas 
fullij aware that justice to itis subject, to the public and to himself, re- 
quired that the different Numbers should be collected and brought for- 
ward, in one view, for the favorable consideration of all who may in- 
terest themselves in such speculations. Though e.rtoisive utility zcas 
his aim, he does not expect a great number of readers, and he only hopes 
that the discerning- few, will devote a short time to the perusal of his 
lucubrations. .•• : 

JVhatever may be the fate of 'this publication, the author will ever 
claim some consideraliofKfor his good intention ; and if any one is in- 
clined to depreciate his performance, he is only disposed, in perfect good 
humour, to invite that person, to favor his fellow subjects with somethi?ig 
more worthy of their notice, aiid better ad^jpted to the circumstances of 
the times. None will ever be found more ( ager to receive instruction^ 
^lor more ready to praise his insliuctor, than the QuKiiiST, 

Mo.NTl.EAL, IClliAruiL, 1813. 



( s ) 

INTRODUCTION. 



MoxTREAL, 12tli August, I8I2. 

AT the present moment, when our Country is menaced with in- 
vasion, every thinkino- man reflects with solicitude on our means of 
defence, and eai^erly seizes every idea of strength and resistance, 
which the circumstances of tlie Canadas suggest. After meditating 
on the sul)ject, he naturally wishes to talk it over a\ ith his friends, 
and lastly to communicate his thoug'.its to che public. 

This inclination is laudable, and, in a certain degree, ought to 
be indulged ; for, though an eagerness to appear in print may bring 
forward niuch useless matter or impertinent remark, it will, at least, 
have the elfect of exciting a spirit of enquiry, into a subject parti- 
cularly interesting to the community. Better informed writers maj 
be expected to succeed those who lirst led the way, to avoid the er- 
rors incident to first attempts, supply their deficiencies, and thus 
gradually enlighten and rectify public opinion. 

Af the first appearance of difficuUy and danger, the people are 
subject to alarm ; they look anxrously around for information and 
direction, from their superiors in station, experience or kno^yledge : 
let them riot be disappointed, nor let such information and direction 
be confined to veibal remark ; the press is assuredly a fit and approv- 
ed medium of instruction. It may be said that the bulk of the 
community cannot read, and that the influence of the press, partJe-u- 
larly in the Lower Province, is comparatively insignificant. But 
even the most ignorant inhabitants can hear; and! will venture to 
affirm that if half the pains had been taken to read good, that have 
been too often taken to read bad publications to them, the effects of 
their loyalty, zeal and docility would have overawed our enemies, 
and almost prevented the threat of bnasion^ so hurtful ta a Country^ 
beginning to advance in the arts of peace. 

The people err, for lack ofhioxdedge ; for to what but ignorance 
could we charitably ascribe 'the many difficulties, which Ave have 
recently experienced, in improving and executing our Militia Laws ? 
It is not, however, my inclination to reproach any class of my fel- 
low-subjects, for want of foresight and preparation -.—the most pru- 
dent and wary have, in some measure, been taken by surprise, an4 

A 2 



( 4 ) 

expfrienre all the inconvenicncies of an unexpected emcri^oncy, 
arising- from tlie in-anity of an unprincipled fue, — an emerj^ency' 
which ought to call forth the exertions, bodily and mental, of all to. 
whom life, property, and kindred are dear. 

In such circumstances, I deem it my duty to offer to the public 
the imperfect ideas, wliich my reflection upon the llcsources of the 
Canadas has produced, and thus to contribute my mite to the com- 
mon stock. 

For the sake of perspicuity, it will be ])roper to subjoin the plan 
of my intended discussion. The succe(>ding Numbers will contain 
observations upon the following or upon similar topics. 

The pozoerful protection of Great Britain^ — her itie.rhauslihie 
means of carr/ying on a defensive rear in the Canadus^ and rcta/iating^ 
on the coast of the United States, anj/ enormities coniniiUcd bj/ that 
enemy here. ■ 

The internal resources of the Canadas^ arising from the character 
of their population and institutions, their local situation and other 
circumstances. 

The reputation and talents of our Governor General ; — his exten- 
sive authorit/y, in times of danger ; — his knoxckdge of the C 'ounlrtj and 
of the genius of its inhat)il(uds ; — and his sagacitjy, in selecting ft 
characters, to execute his designs. 

The goodness of our cause, rendering us unanimous and strong 
against an enemy iceakemd hjy disunion. — A brief ltecaj)itulation. and 
a tew general remarks, adapted to the existing circumstances oi* the 
Country, will conciude the discussion. 



N° II. 

MoNTREAT,, 9th Septembeh, 181:2. 

The powerful protection of Great Britain — her inexhaustible means 
9f carrying on a defensive uar in the Canadas, and retaliating, on the 
coast of the United Slates, any enormities committed by that enemy 
hf re. 

So strong are the foundations, and so extensive the influence of 
British power, that the very name of Briton is a kind of title to 
respect, in every quarter of the globe 3 hence that peculiar dignity 



( 5 ) 

pf character and nice sense of national honor in the people of Britain, 
which, in cases of emergency, ha^e produced a wonderful energy 
and steadiness of conduct in supporting patriotic measures. No 
sooner arc they convinced that the weltare and glory of their kino- 
and country are at stake, than tliey come forward, as one man, to 
pledge the last drop of their blood, the last guinea of their wealth, 
to uphold the conunon cause. 

Those fixed characteristics of Britons, forced upon the attention 
of other nations, by a long- train of events, influencing- the whole 
civilized world, have induced all wise governments to pause and 
reflect, before an appeal to arms. Experieticcd nations have consider- 
ed a long- and painful preparation requisite for a contest with Britain: 
TDell disciplined forces^ hij sea mid land; well replenished magazines 
and arsenals ; zcell ordered finances, not to mention jjowerful allies, 
hare been thought ahsokitelt/ necessary/ to cope with her. It remained 
for the short-sighted government of the United States, to furnish to 
the world an instance of conduct diametrically opposite to such 
cautious policy, and to risk the ruin of their Country, by unprece- 
dented folly. With a handful of men they have dared to invade a 
Province belonging to an Empire whose naval and military power 
has hitherto set every external force at defiance ; whose fleets can, at 
the same time, bring- every aid to its violated territories, and prevent 
any European ally of the United States from rendering them any 
material assistance. They have arrayed themselves against a power, 
that can sweep their commerce from the ocean ; while they talk of 
supporting- the contest by a revenue chiefly to be drawn from trade. 

But we have too much at stake, to allow' us to spend time in 
reprobating- the folly and criticising- the conduct of our opponents; 
Aveak and impolitic as they are, there is still a chance of their doing- 
us infinite mischief, if we are not upon our guard ; and if we can but 
manfully ward off the impending blow, we shall serve ourselves 
better^ than by any revenge which we might eventually obtain. 

In the present case, we are happily not reduced to conjecture ; 
but we have facts and experience to strengthen our confidence in the 
most decisive measures of the Parent State for our assistance ; and 
we are thus enabled to meet the exigencies of the Country with be- 
coming spirit. Many of us have even a personal recollection of the 
circumstances of the former invasion. The same enemy, at that time, 
took the opportunity which the defenceless and unsettled condition of 
Canada afforded, in order to endeavour to surprise or starve us into 
submission ; but, even with advantages physical, moral and political, 
which he would now look for in vain, he was driven from our soil 
with disgrace. The watchful guardians of the British Empire soon 
landed on our shores a powerful army, preventing even the threat of 
invasion during the rest of the war. 



( e ) 

The inclination and the ability of Britain to support us are 
equally certain : — the protection of the Canadas uill assuredly be 
considered/-/ iwlinvnl object^ hi/ nil parlies, and will, of course, be 
promoted with unanimity and vii^our, proportioned to its importance. 

Let us therefore rely upon the combined efforts of the British 
navy and army, to render the present a short, though brilliant contest ; 
let us view its progress with firmness, nor doubt its favorable end. 
Thank Heaven ! po earthly power can impede the progress to our 
aid of her, 

. " Whose march it o'er the mountain wave.*' 

Great Britain, in the present contest, will exert her physical 
force with far greater advantage than in the former American war. 
She then put not forth half her strength against her rel)clliou.s colo- 
nists ; for the combined navies of France, Spain and Holland were 
superior to hers, and she could not reckon upon the safe arrival of 
troops and supplies. But ti))ies are nozc chai/ii^cd ; and having little 
dread of capture, we may even, indulge the hope that every requisite 
exertion may be made upon this new theatre, without lessening her 
efforts in the cause of humanity and European independence, in the 
Peninsula. Out of her vast military establishment would hardly be 
missed the few additional thousands necessary to place us in a com- 
plete posture of defiance, and to prevent the J'arilier interruplUvi oJ\ 
our progress y in wealth and colonial iijiportance^ 

I shall conclude this number with expressing my confidence that 
we shall quickly receive a reinforcement of ten thousand regular 
troops, which will enable us to keep the field w ith fifty thousand men> 
well appointed, and supplied by a Commissariat and subsidiary de- 
partments, directed agreeably to systematic arrangements, resulting 
from the long experience of the Parent State.— We may farther ex- 
pect the powerful influence of a strong fleet, and many diversions in 
our favor on the American coast, with various expedients worthy of 
Britain, and well calculated to eive full employment to hypocritical 
democrats, who may soon bitterly curse the hour, when they vowed 
to march into Canada, in quest of bahn for their wounded honor. 



N° III. 

MoNTREAr., 23rd September, 1812. 

The internal resources of the Canadas, arising fi'om the character 
of their population and institutions ; their local situation and other 
circumstances. 

In discussing this part of my subject, I shall begin with the 



( 7 ) 

French Canadians, the majority of our population ; and I shall first 
observe, that, icith the usual discipline, the^ zcould form a most eM' 
cient regular force, and, that, with the smallest degree of tuition, tliei/ 
icould become fit for partisan zaarfare. 

Their military spirit, so frequently signalised before their con- 
nection with Britain, has burst forth anew, on every return of dan- 
ger; and that same devotion to King- and Country, which animated 
the fathers to deeds of glory, cannot be found wanting in their sons. 
The genius, manners and employment of the French Canadian pre- 
pare him for the ready adoption of a military life. He is fond of 
movement, pomp and show; he subsists on little; and, when engaged 
in arduous pursuits, he submits, with admirable fortitude, to the 
greatest fatigue. 

Thus, cheered by their social boat songs, the North-West 
V03 ageurs have navigated the majestic Saint Lawrence, for ages, 
securing to their employers and to their Country the envied benefits 
of the Fur Trade. The philosophical observer, viewing these ex- 
ertions of the French Canadians, naturally considers that, in military 
pursuits, such favorable habits and dispositions might be turned to 
the best advantage, by skilful leaders. 

But, viewing the majority as engaged in husbandry, we may 
farther remark, that the cultivators of the soil have always been 
selected, in preference, to defend it. Men who practise the arts in 
towns, though, in fully peopled countries, often the readiest, are 
iiot the best materials for an army ; and nations, like the Swiss, 
chiefly agricultural, have invariably produced, in proportion to their 
population, the greatest number of serviceable troops. 

On such grounds, I ascribe to the French Canadians an aptitude 
for military enterprise ; and I now with much deference, beg leave 
to suggest, that, of the great body of their militia, it may, in no 
probaiiie circumstances, be advantageous to incorporate more than 
one sixth, for co-operation with British ti'oops, in regular warfare^ 
Though forming my opinions from general views and observations 
alone, I will venture here to express my hopes, that our expected 
campaign may be planned, in such a manner, as to give a fair op- 
portunity to a Canadian levy en masse, to distinguish itself, in parti- 
san warfare. I should then anticipate many brilliant attempts on the 
part of our peasantry, employed to harrass the foe on his mai'ch, — to 
cut oif his supplies, and finally thus to force him, half famished and 
exhausted, to retire or fall before our regular army. 

Extraordinary circumstances naturally produce corresponding 
<iharacters j and we need fear no want of gallant leaders to the dc» 



( 8 ) 

fenders of their Country. I hope to behold some partisan leader, at 
the head of a band cnullous of the fame of the Spanish Guerillas, 
sometimes on foot, sometimes mounted on hardy Canadian horses, 
rano-ing the Countrv, and harrassing at all points, the invading 
forcej — one moment surprising an advanced guard, — the next falling 
on the baflfgage escort, and seizing the enemy's military chest, — a loss 
which he^ould keenly ieel, and more heavily beuail than loss of 
Loiior, in the field. 

I trust that I shall not be censured for such sanguine expectations 
from the services of a Canadian \e\y en masse ; for a similar force 
has often been the principal means of saving a country. V ictory 
will eventually ever attend that side, to which the inhabitants of the 
theatre of the war may be favorable; and, in the present case, par- 
ticularly, every rational and laudable motive stimulates the French 
Canadians to resist the invaders. They well know the honorable 
origin of Canadian population, which has likewise been ever uniform- 
ly distinguished for attachment to King and Country : and, in its 
gradual encrease, has received no external additions, of a doubtful 
character. The fact is, that the United States' Government have 
monopolised the importation of the outcasts of European society. 
Jefferson, the incomparable statesman, from fellow feeling, loved not 
only the treason but also the traitors,- and, as the Irish rebels said, God 
bless his honor! he made natives of them all. How fortunate that such 
firebrands never found an asylum here ! At the present moment, a 
population less congenial than ours, would prove a source of weak- 
ness to the Canadas, and might possibly enable an invading army, 
a hundred thousand strong, " to look down all opposition." 

But of all our internal sources of resistance, none appears to 
me of greater importance than the firm attachment of the French 
Canadians to the Religion of their flithersj and to its sacred ministers. 
That bulwark of their spiritual and temporal welfare they will rally 
round in the day of clanger ; the voice of those Pastors, >yho have 
watched night and day, with unceasing solicitude over their flocks, 
will not be heard in vain : — it will inspire all with that heavenly 
ardour, which, in the virtuous tause, " smiles at the drawn dagger, 
and defies its point." 

If our beloved Country be invaded, and we, for a moment, be 
forced to give way, let our rallying points be our sacred temples, and 
the tombs of our brave ancestors yet unprofaned : — there, at the 
least, shall our cry be Death or Victory ! — nor can we hesitate an 
instant in making our election, to die and mix with kindred dust, 
rather than live the victims of the oppressor's scorn. 

Ja considering the eiisting institutions of Canada, we cannot 



( ^ ) 

help perceiving- the marked intention of Britain, to make herself 
bDloved, rather tlian feiirod, l)y her now associates in freedom. The 
rii^-hts of cojiqusht have never been exercised here in the usnai manner; 
tlie fee!i}i<is and interestri of the eonOjiiered have never been sacrificeci 
to those of the conquering- nation; no irritating- changes liave taken 
place; the happiness, interest aud duty of the ('anadians have been 
griduallv l>lended together: and the g-ratefnl opinion pervades the 
people, that their condition has loiig- been more respectable and happy 
than that of anj otlier Colonists ancient or modern. 

When l']uropean conquerors meditate an attack upon an enemy^a 
Province, their emissaries precede them, and commonly find disaftecr 
tiou and discontent pervading- the denoted land : — Grievances to be 
redressed: insults asid injuries to be avenged; extortion to be punish- 
ed, have always been the means of exciting emotions friendly to the 
invading- power. In Caivada however no suck causes of weakness 
prevail. All tliose inteiiigent and respectable characters, wlio deser- 
vedly lead the public opinion, are averse to innovation as being fraug-ht 
with danger; and, while tliey unanimously ascribe the present pros^ 
perity and respectability of the Country to its connection Avith the 
Jiriti'sh Jhiij)ire, they look forward to. the like inviolaUe atta,chnieutj 
as the ark of safety to all they hold dear. 

But our internal strength and our attaclunent to Britain will not 
entirely depend or. our sense of the superior security and privileges, 
wliich we enjoy in respect of Religion. A political constitution, form- 
ed upon the model of that of the Parent State, is the object of increas- 
ing affection to us a!i. With honest pride, \ye regard it as a mark 
of the love and conhde:ice of a magnanimous, powerful and experienced, 
people, wiio have raised us to the rank of brothers and sliarers in the 
precious political inheritance of th.eir fathers. And can it then be 
supposed that the Canadas, the touch of whose very soil is destruction 
to slavery, will sink into the arms of American Slaveliolders ? Sooner 
will the Canadians sink lifeless into the lap of earth, than submit to 
such degradation. They have long listened, with silent indig-nation, 
to the contemptuous sallies of Fredonian petulance; and they can put 
tlie proper construction tipon ofters of civilisation and freedom from 
the self-styled most crcilised nation in the universe. The character of 
the present overweening factious administration of the United States. 
is fully appreciated here : and the In me nt able situation of the remaining 
French and Spanish population of Louisiana and East Florida, has 
deeply impressed the Canadians ichh a horror at the verij idea of fra-^ 
ternisation or communion zcith unprincipled landjobbers, and hungry 
dependents of a rapacious government. 

B 



( 10 ) 

N° IV. 

Montreal, 7th October, 1812. 

Same Subject conlinucd. 

Leaving the French Canadians, I now return to review the re- 
Tnaininjr inhabitants of these Provinces, distingiiishin*'- them into the 
following classes : 

Worth}/ descendants of frird ht/n/ists, evjoj/ins; the honorahle 
rewards of llnir fa I hers'' /Idc/it/y : — J/ioh-s/>irifed (niigraMs from the 
United Kinsxdovis^dii.rioHs to uta'tufain the hiOior of their n<dixe land: 
yind /asf//y, j)J(n, 7cho^ h// dc/iheralr choice, have hceoine the Suhjccts of 
the J'riiish Crotcn, <iiid are hound hij cxerij tie of interest and dutj/, to 
defend the Countrj/ of their adoption. 

When we consult the annals of Great Britain, we have the satis- 
faction to iind, that she has ever stood foremost among the powers of 
the world, as the faithful performer of all her engagements, l)oth to 
foreign nations and to her own subjects. 

To every people worthy of her alliance or s\ipport, she has gene- 
rously furnished assistance; and in ciises, when all other expedients 
emploved in their favor have eventually failed, she has finally offer- 
ed to the victims of loyalty of every cliine, an honorable asylum and 
means of subsistence, in her own dominions. 

The chances of war, and a combination of circumstances hostile 
to British prosj)eritv, having accomplished the independence of the 
British Colonies, now forming the United States of America, the 
British legislature and people, readily perceived and geiierously allow- 
ed, the claims of those determined loyalists who had lost their pro- 
perty and their liomes, by adhering to the sacred cause of their King 
andcountry. Never were justice and true policy more strikingly 
displayed before an admiring world, than when (Ireat Britiiin ex- 
pended many nuUions of her wealth, in proving to her sons, that 
unshaken loyalty, deserving of success, though unable to command 
it, would inevitably obtain conspicuous acknowledgment and reward. 
She thus prepared the attachment, gratitude and admiration of suc- 
ceeding generations, and added more to the stability of her reputation 
and power, bv that single act of enlightened legislation, than by 
countless successes in war. 

To those loyalists, wlu/rje habits and manners were accommodated 
to the new world, the Parent State offered an asylum and every en- 
couragement to industrious exertion, in her remaining North Ameri- 



( 11 ) 

can Provinces; and not less than Ten Thousand of those meritorious 
individual!-:, most of whom had fought for their kin«^, were reckoned in 
Canada, in 1784. Those venerable settlers, who still live to i^uide 
the eiVorts of their sons, in defence of the honorable rewards of deter- 
mined lojalty and persevering industry, ought'to be considered, on 
the present occasion, as capable of rendering- essential service to the 
common cause. Tlieir clear recollection of past sutFerings; their 
lively sense of present enjoyments; their gratitude, under Providence, 
to that benevolent monarch, the father of his people, who patronised 
their claims, — ail tend, in a peculiar manner, to stimidate the exertions 
of this class of our population in tlie defence of a Country endeared 
to them and to their cliildren by the tenderest ties. The familiar 
story of their lives has served to cherisli a military spirit and a detes- 
tation of rebels, among their children and friends; and their expe- 
rience in war will prove a source of confidence, in the hour of danger. 
How gratifying to all good subjects must be the spectacle exhibited 
by those brave veterans, when they come forth surrounded by their 
sons, preparing and exhorting them to defend all that Heaven and 
their own merits have bestowed ! Can we doubt of success to the 
efforts of veteran loyalists, directing the energies of their patriotic 
descendants ? 

But the hopes of the Country have other stays in times of diffi- 
culty. Jjct us take an exhilarating view of those high-spirited emigronts 
from the United Kingdoms, anxious to maintain the honor of their 
native land; — who, braving the dangers and inconveniencies of a long 
vovage and removal from the scenes of their early exertions, have 
boldly sought in these favored Colonies, a wider Held to persevering 
industry, and a new theatre, calculated for the display of all that is 
valuable in the British character. Laudable motives may surely be 
ascribed to the youtliful votary of fortune, who directs his steps to a 
distant dependency of his native country, in preference to the terri- 
tory of a foreign power ; and we may safely expect unequivocal proof 
of his patriotic attachments, in case of emergency. 'J'hat vigour of 
mind requisite to induce a virtuous young man, of the above descrip- 
tion, to seek the new world, points him out, to the skilful observer, as 
formed to engage in arduous enterprise and to pursue the objects of 
his choice with invincible energy. If we farther reflect, that British 
emiirrants have generally their natural talents improved by useful 
knowledge, and ti.at they actually compose many thousands of our 
most active population, we shall readily view them as an important 
part of internal strength. Let me likewise remark tliat tiiey are 
powerful means of preserving these Colonies and the Mother Country, 
in the strictest bonds of union: for a circulation of population, main- 
tained between the Parent State and her Colonies, has always been 
considered absolutely necessary to their mutual h.appiness and pros- 
perity. Bi/ such individuals, informalion regarding the existing cir- 



( 1'^ ) 

twYJstcmces of Grcnt Brilain and of these Provinces iff disseminated in a 
'thousand modes, and the readiest and most cjj'eetual means of reciprocal 
aid become familiar on both sides of the Atlantic. 

But it is now time to say ^ few vvords respecting that portion of 
Canadian population, \vliich 1 have above described as men, zcho, bj/ 
deliberate choice, have become subjects of the British Crorcn, and are 
hound bij evert/ tie (f interest and duty, to defend the Covnlr?/ of their 
adoption. The moderate proportion of iniiabilants, which forms the 
last mentioned class, have excited greater uneasiness in the bosoms 
of some well-meaning, natm-al born iiritiali subjects, than, I humbly 
conceive, was required. When men, in general, have deliberately 
taken up their residence in a State, to wiiicii no tears of condign 
punislmient, but hopes of ameliorating- their condition, have induced 
them to repair; — when tliey have invested their money or the fruits of 
their industry in the soil, tlicy naturally become interested in the 
improvement and welfare of tlieir adopted Country. Besides, the 
influence of habit upon the hunjan mind is universally acknowledged; 
and hard and urifeeliiif^ must be that individual, who acquires no 
sympathy with surrounding olijects. At all events, we knoAV that 
such uncommon characters are viewed, by their neighbours, with salu* 
tary jealousy ; and, in times of diilicuUy, are so narrowly watched, that 
they rarely dare to avow disaffection or even indilference. J»ut, far- 
ther, the clearest convictions of the understanding and the best feelings 
of the heart will induce most men to preserve their allegiance and to , 
perform its duties to a government, like ours, so admirably exerted * 
in affording to every subject security of person and property, qnd 
every encouragement to the employment of those talents v.hich dis- 
tinguish the useful Member of Society. 1 shall therefore continue 
confident that a vigorous inspection on the part of our police, and the 
skilful application of the powerful principles of emulation, fear and 
hope, will cause disaSection to hide its headj or sho^V itself only to 
be extirpated. 

Let me here subjoin some remarks upon apart of our population, 
■ivhicli, from its anticipated importance, as a means of defence, par- 
ticularly in Upper Canada, ought not to have been omitted in my 
enumeration. 1 allude to the Indians, that much injured race, whose 
character seems of late to have f)eon as nnjustly traduced, as it was 
unreasonably applauded half a centiiry ago. — Instead of endeavourirjg 
to conciliate and imj)rove them, the United States^ Governmeat winJc n 
at measures calculated for their utter extermination. In t!ie present 
state ofonr relations with tlrat unprincipled adnjinistration, we should 
take advantage of the nat'.nal disaffection of the Indian tribes, and 
adopt some plan foi their organisation, in sucli a manner as would 
render tiiem truly formidable to their raj)ac!0iis foes. Their first 
approach to a civilized state, compatible with their nat\n'al indo- 
peadence, must arise from the combination of several Tribes under 



( 13 ) 

some able leader ; and is it not probable that the Chief, called the 
Prophet, may be enabled to begin that great work ? It is well known 
tliat when the confederate Tribes were partly extirpated, partly driven 
from their ( -ountry, by General Sullivan, during- the American war 
they iiad made very material advances in the arts of life, particularly 
in husbandry. If Great Britain should generously afford an asyluiUj 
in her territories, to the oppressed Indians, she might not merely be 
enabled, in the meantime, to form a necessary barrier against the ra- 
pacity of American Land-jobbers ; but she might eventually have the 
glory of promoting the civilization of an interesting portion of the 
human race. 

Since hostilities have commenced, we have had recent experience 
of the invaluable service which the Indians are capable of performing. 
Their peculiar dexterity, in bodily exercises ; their presence of mind 
and ready invention, in time of danger ; their perfect knowledge of 
the forest pdths and defiles, fitting them for being partisans, messen- 
gers and guides, — those and many minor qualifications render them 
no mean acquisition in the present contests 

As to the hypocritical exclamations of our enemies against our 
associating the Indians with ourselves in mutual defence, the best 
answer is found in the nervous language of the brave General Brock, 
in reply to General Hull's exterminating proclamation : " By what 
" new principle are they (the Indians) to be prevented from defending* 
" their property ? If their warfare, from being difierent from that of 
" the white people is more terrific to the enemj , let him retrace his 
" steps J they seek him not."" 



N° V. 

Montreal, 21st October, 1812. 

Same subject continued. 

In every consideration ofour internal means of resisting threatene.i 
invasion, the local situation of our Country is worthy of particular 
regard. 

I must here, at the outset, confess my want of a personal knovv- 
ledo-e of Canadian topography ; but, having paid the strictest attention 
to the casual remarks of others upon that important subject, I will 
venture to make a few general observations. 

Let me however, in the first place, premise, that, while Gi'eat 
Britain is mistress of the ocean, the United States' government can 



( 14 ) 

only attack us upon one side ; coiiscquontly, the reduction of the 
Canadas, by tlieir |)i'(*.sent sovorcia^n, affords little oncouraoeniont to 
the expected attempt. As to the overruiHiiuf"- of the territory which 
now forms Lower Canada, during the former American war, it 
was evidently facilitated by causes entirely tcmporaiy, and unlikely 
ever to return. At that deplorable period, when this viilnable ('olony 
was, for some months, exposed to the uui^overnable rapiicity and 
brutal licentiousness of a turbulent foe. Governor Carleton was unable 
to occupy those important posts on our frontier; of which the res- 
pectable body of regulars and armed population now at command, 
will enable our present Chief to take advantairc. The Isle aux Noix, 
now rendered a complete bar to invasion, by the way of Lake Cham- 
plain, was then quietly pitched on, by the rebels, as their place of 
rendezvous ; whence Proclamations and Circulars, niodels for those 
of all future invaders, upon similar principh^s, were spread through 
the Countrv. None of the common precautions of breaking down 
bridges, destroying roads and blocking up passes could be taken ; nor 
had there been time to enjoin and facilitate the removal of any part of 
the grain, cattle and effects of the Colonists, out of the reach of the 
enemy, w!io devoured the wealth of hisyi/cwi/^, and wasted the property 
of the rest. 

Very different will be our circumstances and exertions, in the 
expected invasion. Tfe have every renwti to believe that the zchole 
extent of our frontier has been earefally explored ; that, in the proper 
departments, are deposited ninnerous and correct Maps., Plans., and 
3femoirs, so essentially requisite for the shilfid planning and condnctin^ 
of a. campaign ; that, as Jar as can be done, without weakening the main 
hod I/, detachments will be sent to occupy and defend the most important 
stations and defiles ; and, in short, that every expedient will be employed 
to increase the local impediments to invasion. 

Aware of my Avant of official information, I tremble at the thought 
of descending to particulars ; but 1 still feel an irresisti])le impulse to 
communicate a few ideas, which have insensibly crowded upon me, 
since 1 took up my pen. 

I mean to confine my view to what mig'ht possibly take place on 
our frontier, and to what seems practicable in case the enemy, con- 
trary to ex[)ectation, sitould reach the southern bank ofthe^aint 
Lawrence, in the Lower Province. 

Giving therefore, f<jr a moment, my fancy the rein, I will sup- 
pose, that, no sooner shall we have intelligence that the eneuiy is 
advancing to menace our lities, than strong detachments for observa- 
tion, chiefly composed of Militia aud Indians, will aj)pear, fully pre- 
pared to impede the progress of the foe : — every bridge and road will 
be destroyed : and every footpath rendered impracticable by trees 



( 15' ) 

felled and lying- with their bougiis inler'.veaved. SliouUl the enemy 
attempt to cut his way tJiroiigh the woods, the same scouring parties 

will continually liarrass his working- detachiuoists and their guard : 

lurking- behind evecy bush will lie a wily Indian or Riileinan, takino- 
sure aim undisturbed; and, after killing his man, bounding swifdj 
and unperceived to another post, in pursuit ol'his game. A few active 
leaders, inspiring such parties with enthusiasm, will quickly enable 
the whole Country to appear, night and day, in unceasing liostiJity. 

While the invaders will be thus kept at bay, the faithful inliabitaiit?, 
fully aware of tite clraracter of their foes, will be employing every 
minute which they c?in spare from defence, in removing- or coiicealing 
their eiTects ; the distance of the place of deposit being always pro- 
portioned to their expectations of the a1>ility of the enemy to advance 
into the Country. For such deposits, in case no fortiiied posts are at 
hand, some of the parish-churches must eventually be employed; 
and, if the unprincipled invaders, in pursuit of plunder, dare to 
violate those sanctuaries of the national faith, the surrounding popu- 
lation u'ill unanimously urge to be led to instant revenge. 

Harassed in the manner above described, the enemy must issue 
from the woods, weakened with loss and fotigue, a fit object of im- 
mediate attack to a strong- detachment of fresh troops, from the main 
body ; and it would not l»e extraordinary, if such an attack should, 
at once, prostrate his hopes, make him abandon his ground entirely 
and endeavour to escape. At all events, our chief cares will be, to 
make use of all our knowledge of local advantages, in order to pre- 
clude his commanding any more of our Country, than that on which 
he may be encamped, and to surprise or cut off every detachment 
from his main body, for plunder or forage. 

Among the various cliances of war, it frequently happens that 
an invading arniy advancing into a Country, Avith which their Gene- 
ral is not familar, will fall into an ambuscade; and, in such a case, 
we can readily imagine the dreadful confusion and probable destruc- 
tion, which a daring attempt on the part of our Militia and Indians 
would produce. Nothing but long habit could prevent tlie enemy 
from being appalled at the horrid yells of the Indians ; and these 
being followed by a spirited charge of the bayonet and tomahawk, 
must complete their confusion, rout and destruction. 

It seems of the utmost importance, on a first aggression, to take 
every advantage of our situation, and to strike a terror into our 
adversary, at once ; for, if the first opportunity be neglected of 
attacking the foe, after his harassed and fatiguing march, through 
our marshes, woods and defiles, we shall not, for some time, have 
such a superiority of circumstances over him. He will then have 
time to look around and take precautions ; and we shall be obliged to 



( 16 ) 
employ new expedients to break Iiis spirit and prepare him for defeat^ 

But, tlioujrli from such a celebrated Cliief as commands us, Me 
may expect ovciy display of dexterity in takini^ all those advantaoea 
which time and place may aft'ord; though we may hope, that cverv- 
stroke of generalship, every manoeuvre of tactics will be employed, 
to keep the enemy from the interior, it will still be proper to prepare 
our minds for something- more arduous, antl to consider what seems 
practicable, against him, incase, contrary to expectation, he should 
reach the southern bank of the Saint Lawrence, in the Lower Pro- 
vince. In such a case, how could we prevent his crossing the river ? 
It is obvious, that this could chiefly be done by armed boats, floatiu"- 
batteries, and such means of annoyance. Lideed i slr.ill liardly con- 
sider our Government seriously alarmed, until I perceive the njost 
vi<^orous exertions, to equip a flotilla, for river-service; and, when 
I consider the nmnber of men in the Country, habituated to the 
navigation of the Saint Lawrence, 1 look forward to their labours, 
under skilful leaders, as an invaluable resource to the Canadas, in 
the day of danger. 

In no situation do I expect more certain destruction to an Ame- 
rican army, than in an attempt to force the passage of our nobie 
river, which, I trust, as it is a natural ornament, may likewise be 
rendered a means of defence to our beloved ('oiuitry. Let the ene- 
my only be kept upon the farther side of the Saint Lawrence, and 
he will be able to do us comparatively little harm; for such is the 
existing- spirit of the Province, that the inliabitants Avould remove, 
with all their substance, to the hither side of the river, leaving tho 
enemy alone in a desert, 'till opportunity offered to drive him entirely 
from our soil. 

While reflecting upon the advantages to be derived from the local 
situation of the Canadas, we are led to advert to the character and 
conduct of its first European masters : — they n>ight be called the 
natural rivals and enemies of the neighbourinig Colonists; and they 
were accordingly unwearied in devising means to annoy them. What 
our predecessors did from views of ambition and concjucst, we may be 
reasonably expected to do, in self-defence. Let us not therefore 
disdain to imitate the conduct of the skilful officers of the "greatest 
monarchs of the Bourbon race. Let us take for granted, till experience 
contradict it, that all those posts and positions which history or tra- 
dition informs us were chosen and fortified by French Engineers are 
not uuAvorthy of attention. Making allowance for the change of 
circumstances, the history of all the French campaigns in this Country, 
and, particularly, that of their last, might furnish the most important 
lessons to the defenders. 






(17 ) 

N" VI. 

Montheal, 6th November, 181?. 

Same Subject coiilinued. 

Having now reviewed the character of the population and insti- 
tutions, as well as the local advantages of the Canadas, I shall brief- 
ly advert to those articles of tlieir produce which are necessary for 
thesubsistance of the lidiabitants, and likewise to those which may 
])ereiidered subservient to their defence, duriui? tbe war. 



T! 



hough the United States' government have failed in their scheme 
of overrunning this Country or reducing it by a coup de main ; and, 
though the chances of war have been hitherto favorable to our sacred 
cause, let not success lull us asleep, but rather rouse us to act with 
double energy, in making every preparation for vigorous resistance. 
After the late base conduct of our enemij to the friendlj/ Province of 
East Florida^ zee should, both in peace and in war, consider him as 
ever on the zcatchfor an opportunity/ to subdue us, by force or intrigue. 

Impressed with such ideas of the necessity of unceasing vigila.nce 
and jealousy, I consider the slightest allusion to the resources deriva- 
ble from our Agriculture, our Fisheries, Forests and Mines, as 
worthy of the attention of ail good subjects. But, upon this important 
topic, few private individuals can be expected to be minutely inform- 
ed. The eminent task of investigating, encouraging, directing and 
extending the industry, trade and resources of this Country is worthy 
of the labours and patronage of its enlightened administration. For 
my p^i t, I confess that I am particularly unprepared to discuss this 
subject in the manner 1 could wish ; and I feci myself obliged to 
confine my remarks to a very narrow range. 

I shall begin by observing that our enemy will happily be disap- 
pointed in his expectation of quickly starving us into submission. 
Were Great Britain indeed under the necessity of supplying her 
colonists and soldiers, in the Canadas, with imported provisions 
entirely, as she has done the inhabitants and armies in Portugal, 
starvation might eventually stare us in the face and, backed with a 
large army, might " look down all opposition." But if we continue true 




commanding more of our ground than " the extent of their bayonets 
and, while our disposable population seems amply sufficient for all the 
purposes of co-operation in defence, the rest may, by thejudiciuufi 



( IS ) 

jarranj^ements of the CoinnmiKlcr in Chief, be enabled to continue, 
with casual interruption, the cultivation of the soil and the avocati- 
ons connected uitli the subsistence and defence of the community. 

In examining a subject like the present, it seems proper to allude 
to the general course of things and to pass by casual deviations. Our 
late detective crop is a misfoitune uhich we have reason to trur,t will 
not be again ex])eiicnced for several years ; and my oljservations will^ 
be more useful wiien adapted to the average and ordinary produce of 
our bountiful soil, leaving it to the judgment of my readers to make 
the allowance for casualties. 

Considering accordingly tliat our usual crops have frequently 
enabled Us to export half a 'million of bushels of grain, exclusive of 
large quantities of flour, we may surely Itope, that, though even ten 
thousand men were withdrawn from agricultural pursuits, and em- 
bodied for service during the war, a suflicient nundjer would still 
remain to raise subsistence for the whole. I trust tliat it will excite 
the most strenuous exertions of the Canadas to raise abundance of 
provisions for the provincial corps, at the least ; and that, if im- 
portations must take place, they may be cliiefly for the supply of the 
British regular troops ; this would be a striking proof of the spirit 
of the whole population; and the acccnnpiishmcnl of such an important 
object scans /iLr'y to he promoted hij local attachments and partialilicsy 
in/luencin"- the hulk of man hind, as loell as Ini that enlarsitd patriotism 
which distinguishes the more enlightened nicmbers oj soae/j/. 1 he desul- 
tory service of tlie country people will seldom require a regular supply 
of provisions: tliose hardy fellows will carry many f^ays' nourishment 
in tlieir haversacs, prepared at their homes, with a care and ceconomy 
elsewhere impracticable. 

I shall next observe, that the present circnnstances of the Coun- 
try seem to require some changes iti the ai>ricultural routine of the 
inhabitants, it being now of the greatest consequence to raise a 
suiliciency of vrgx'talile (bod, for our internal supply, and to guard 
against casualties, we ought to diversity our crops, and particularly 
to appropriate an extraordinary extent of soil to the raising of po- 
tatoes, the most serviceable of all the farinaceous roots. Jt is a well 
known fact, that the produce of an aere^ planted icith potatoes^ zcill 
nourish four times the number of men that the crop of an acre sozon icith 
zoheat Zi)ould do, and I therefore believe that it u'ould onlij be common 
prudence to increase the cultivation of potatoes two-fold during this zcar. 
The attoption of the peavar.hv should likewise be directed to the 
raising of animal food, particularly pork, a favorite aliment, in this 
country, habitually used among our troops ; and, by the smallness of 
its bulk, peculiarly fitted for transjiorr, either by land or water. If 
our inhabilants coidd odIv l)e persuaded of the impoi-^anci^ attached 
to polalues and pork, in niauy Countries, particularly in Ireland^ 



( 19 ) 

they would view tlioso valual)le articles of provision in their true 
light, rendering- lis independent of our neighbours, with respect t«3( 
subsistence, and affording a new object of export to the West Indies, 

But, farther, when wc looli around we must be struck with the 
spontai.eous bounties of nature in this new Country, in which many 
sources of supply have been abuost nejHected. Without the aid of 
the Sister Provinces, we might assuredly draw one fourth of our 
subsistence from the waters, whicJi, at different seasons of the year, 
swarm with salmon, shad, trout, bass, white-fish, &c. all excellent 
of their kinds : and, if we extend our view to the Labrador coast an<l 
to the Gulph of the St. Lawrence, we shall find reason to expect an 
inexhaustible supply of cheap nutritious food, in every emergency. 
Nor, in peaceable times, does the game of our forests contribute sub- 
sistence to its utmost ability : — our V'oyageur corps and partisans may 
be expected to avail themselves of that resource, in its proper season. 
All persons who have resided in the North West Country have been 
often reduced to live chielly upon the game and fisli which they might 
obtain by their personal exertions; and, being thus habituated to 
providing food for themselves, we may therefore anticipate their easy 
subsistence, great part of the year. Li like manner, the Indians will 
kill and catch in abundance, requiring very little food from us, except 
perhaps on a march. 

After the above glance at our internal means of subsistence, I 
trust that my readers will allow that starvation may be kept at bay; 
I shall therefore, now add a few observations upon the important sup- 
plies of Timber which our forests will contribute ; these along with 
our iron and hemp being the articles most subservient to our defence. 

In the first place we might, in case of necessity, build a river 
flotilla from such indigetjous sources, having every requisite except 
canvass which is not indispensable. Timber is likewise of great im- 
portance in fortification ; and the refuse of our forests will heat the 
furnaces, employed in our camps and forts for military purposes, as 
well as defend our tire-sides from the rigours of the climate. In 
short, v/iththe wood, iron and hemp produced by this Country alone, 
we might prove formidable to our foe ; for in the hands of the inge- 
nious and brave, those would assume a thousand shapes of annoyance. 
But, thank heaven! we are not reduced to depend upon Canadian 
resources for munitions of war. Our Parent State has been gradual- 
ly forming depots at Quebec and other posts, upon the most respec' 
table scale; and it is proimble that the exertions of the Provincial 
founderies will be confined to the making of a few unimportant mi^ 
litary articles, in addition to their accustomed operations. 

C 3 



( 2b ) 

To conclude, all those internal resources must be a,rafluallf 
developed and employed, accordinj^ to circumstances; and the full 
advantan^es derivable from them can only arise from the constant 
encouragenipnt and protection of the internal trad*^ of the Country. 
If the circulation and the exchange of produce between both Pro- 
vinces, or between different parts of each Province be impeded, the 
inhabitants will experience much inconvenience and loss. A free 
circulation of produce is the i^enera! advanta2;e of a Country: and 
as the principal means of procuring that bles-ini;- we look iomard to 
a powerful protection of the intercourse between both Provinces by 
the Saint Lawrence.* 



N° VII. 

Montreal, 2jth November, 1812. 

The reputation and talents of our Governor General; — his exten-f 
she authoritf/ in times of danger ; his hnozc/edge of the Countrj/ and 
of the genius of its inhahilants ; and his sagacity in selecting ft ehu- 
ractcrsy to execute his designs. 

The immediate cause of the superiority of one country over ano- 
ther is frequently found in the reputation and talents of him who 
commands its resources; and h'fstory furnishes abundance of proof 
that the power and glory of a people have been often entirely owing 
to the merits of their Chief. At all events, I may safely atlirm, that 
the subjugation of most countries, particularly in the present aj^e, has 
arisen more from the weakness, folly and nnsconduct of their rulers, 
than from any want of such means of resistance as he who is truly 
great in the cabinet and in the field will successfully employ. 

The romantic Country of Swisserland, long the object of admira- 
tion and delight to the philosophical observer and friend of humanity, 
fell, from its high estate, into the gulph of French vassallage, by the 
cowardice and incapacity of its rulers. In worthier hands, the })ra- 
very of its inhabitants and the many advantages of its local situation 
would have formed an effectual barrier against sudden invasion; 
and the generoiis aid of friendly powers, particularly of Britain, 
would have eventually secured the existence of the state, with all its 
ancient and endeared connections. 

In reflecting therefore upon our means of resistance, we cannot 
rest satisfied with contemplating the passive resources of our Country; 

* See note A at (he end. 



( 21 ) 

but we anxiously turn our eyes upon liim, Avho is authorised to call 
them all into action : — we dwell upon the preceding events of his life, 
and eagerly anticipate from the past and the present the future effects 
of his invaluable qualities. 

With Avhat inexpressible pleasure do we now peruse the history of 
his military career, conimei'.ciiig- with his youth, and increasing- in 
brightness with his years! With what satistaction do we read the ac- 
counts of his recent administration in Nova Scotia; the shortness of 
which can never prevent its forming an a^ra in the history of the im- 
provement of that rising Country! But his present high station has 
unfolded s<iil farther the resources of liis mind, and seems destined 
to give full play to the energies of his character. 

We witnessed his unwearied anxiety, before the war, to promote 
every laudable enterprise ; and we then looked forward to years of 
rapid advancement in Mealth and colonial importance. But, on 
his part, that sagacity peculiar to genius, and tliat foresight and 
vigilance, which distinguish tlie practised statesman and warrior, were 
quickly exerted in gradual preparation for defence. His equity and 
impartiality gained the confidence, while his affability and attention 
acquired the love of the Colonists; and his whole influence was suc- 
cesfuliy employed in proving to the inhabitants of every description, 
that he was resolved to practise the benevolent policy of his royal 
master, to whom all his faithful subjects are equally dear, and alike 
the objects of his paternal solicitude. 

The consequences that iiivariably result from such conduct are 
now present to our view ; we behold all full of confidence and strength 
arising immediately from a Avell understood union of interest in the 
defence of the Country. Those internal jealousies which encouraged 
our adversary to attempt our ruin have gradually disappeared; the 
combined effects of an enlightened policy and the danger of a foreig-n 
yoke, intolerable to all who have tasted of British rights, have sud- 
denly made us a military people, 

*• PFith hearts resolv'd, and hands prepar'd 
" The blessings, we enjoy, to guard." 

When the actual invasion of the Lower Province shall take place, 
and, in consequence military law be proclaimed, our vigorous govern- 
ment will be advantageously contrasted with that of our enemy. Then 
indeed will the whole powers of our Governor's mind find exertion 
in a field as extensive as a British subject can desire. The whole 
weight and responsibility of government will be upon him ; nor will 
they prove too heavy a burthen. 

This extensive anthoriti/^ in times of danger, is both the touchstone 
of transcendent merit, in its possessorj and the means of bringing forr 



( 22 ) 

ward, with the greatest effect, the whole strength and resources of a 
Country. In such cases however the fate of the people is necessarily 
involved in the fortune of their chief; and their wliole movements are 
impressed \vith his character: — obedient to his will and example, 
prudence or rashness will prevail ; vigilance or remissness will 
exist. Raised to the pinnacle of power, if a Chief waste the spirit of 
the Country, in (<perations of momentary splendour, he n)ust find it 
deficient when the grand work of defence should be performed: if he 
forget that his glorj should consist in the result of the operations of 
a whole campaign, not in some partial interrupted gleams of success, 
which may only serve to lure him to his doom, — he will justly be con- 
sidered as trilling with fortune and needlessly multiplying the chances 
of war. Such is the conduct of inexperienced commanders, aspiring 
to premature fame. 

But I feel happy at the idea, that, when invested >wth all the 
authority which the existing circumstances of time and phice can re- 
quire, our Governor General icill nrnformh; display all llnti self-con- 
trotcl, which should dis(in2;nish him ccho is erilrusfed Kith the defence of 
a valuable population^ sloiolj/ accumulated under all the d/J/(culties of 
colonisation in a Country/ zvhose rigorous climate debars them from 
commerce and almost from trery adxantage of agricultural exertion 
during half the year. Though authorised to call forth every man 
capable of bearing arms, and to employ him, as he may choose, in 
military operations, he will reflect, with the solicitude of a parent, 
upon the peculiar circumstances of difterent members of his immense 
family, and will never make their burthens heavier than they can bear. 
The best blood in the Country, flowing at his command, will be spar- 
ingly drawn; and he will not despise the counsel of the warlike king 
of Morven, to a son worthy of his sire : 

•' Seek not the bailie, nor shun it whea it comes." 



N' VIII. 

Montreal, 9th. December, 1812. 

Same Subject continued, 

** Success in rear chief y depends upon the abilities of the general ; 
on his knowledge of the situations which he occupies, and on the art 
which he displays in taking advantage of the ground, either by pre- 
renting the enemy from obtaining favorable posts, or by securing to 
himself the spots best adapted for his own designs.'' 

Such are the terms in which Frederic the Great speaks of the 



( 23 ) 

inestimable importance of the kuowledo-e of a Country, in the General 
t^ntrusted with its defence, I may therefore be suffered to avow th« 
great consolation which I draw, in these times of danger, from my 
conviction, that our Governor has a perfect knozsledge of this Couniru. 
as well as of the genius of its inhabitants* 

Possessed of all that previous acquaintance with our situation and 
our wants, w hich his early recollections and habitual studies supplied, 
he came to our Country, solicitous to illustrate, by personal expe- 
rience, the ideas which he had formed of our local and political cir- 
cumstances. Traversing our extensive domains, with the eye of a 
general and a statesman, he has viewed every part, enquiring and 
examining for himself. What our invaders can only have read or 
heard of, he personally knows ; while they must throw themselves, at 
first, in a great measure, upon fortune, he will play a surer game, and 
have many advantages in his favor. Ignorance of the Country will divest 
the enemy of half his courage ; he will tremble at every step, and, 
particularly during night, will be haunted with imaginary dangers. 

What advantage will not our accomplished Chief draw from all 
those causes of debility in our foes ! He will harass them, and 
increase their perplexities, by unceasing attacks upon every side, 
and fatigue the whole with a fourth of their number. Whenever an 
American General, in the accustomed mode, may renew the attempt 
upon our frontiers, the least he can expect is the fate of Braddock 
or Saint Clair ; whose history might deter any prudent officer from 
rashly advancing to violate our territory. Indeed nothing but the 
scheming character of our foes could account for their conduct, during 
the present war. That same temerity which marked the conduct of 
many American individuals, in commercial pursuits, while residing 
in Canada^ has likewise displayed itself in their military enterprises. 
In both instances, their imaginations out-ran their judgments ; the 
trader found bankruptcy instead of fortune : the general, instead of 
conquest, found defeat. In both instances likewise, their wily oppo- 
nents stood by, in comparative security, waiting events, having little 
more to do, than to take advantage of their blunders, anddextrously 
entangle the intruders in their own snares. Canada has doubtless 
been a dangerous tield to American enterprise, both in commerce and 
in war ; and experience, in both cases, must be dearly purchased : — 
fortunes half made, and laurels half won, are aU that they could ever 
boast of 

Those military characters alone, who shall fight and bleed upon 
our soil or pass through our Country, as captives, can acquire even 
a superficial acquaintance with our local circumstances ; and even 
when such men shall grow romantic enough to undertake to traverse, 
as conquerors, that ground which they have already trodden as pri- 



( 24 ) 

soners?, they will ?till labour under "^rcat disadvantages. The face 
of this Country, the nature of its roads and the state of its rivers are 
subject to sudden and important chan<;es, from its peculiar climate, 
with the effects of which our Governor is quite fau)iiiar. Roads, 
rivers and marshes, which are passable at one season of the year, 
become impassable at another; and this alteration happens often to 
them all, in a single night. 

Many a fool-hardy American has been frozen to death or drowned 
in this Country, while the sagacious natives invariably escape such 
" moving accidents by flood and field." We may rest assured that 
our inteiiigeat Chief will reap every benefit from our formidable ally, 
the Canadian climate, which will (particularly in a winter campaign) 
dispatch as many foes as regular warfare. The Indians and the V'oya- 
gcurs will likewise be ordered out upon snow-shoes, to catch them 
in their flight, as they catch the swiftest animals entangled in the 
snow ; and nothing but remissness on our part can possibly, in such 
circumstances, allow a single enemy to escape. 

The more I reflect upon the unconquerable obstacles to the 
'^ victorious progress " of any invader of this formidable Country, the 
more deeply am I impressed with the idea^ that a fatality attends the 
American schemers of conquest : — defeat and disgrace seem destined 
for them upon our plains; and our soil seems appointed to fatten on 
their blood. A periodical evacuation of that kind may be absolutely 
necessary, in a feverish democracy, in order to prolong its permitted 
existence; and Canadians will not disobey the apparent mandate of 
Heaven, to apply the lancet and mitigate a disease, for which no 
remedy could be found elsewhere. Canada, though furnishing no 
balm for zooundecl honour, m'Ay^hy Si\\ii\ch\ood.-\eii\u^^ and a short 
cooling regimen, relieve the fantastics of the brain, before the ice 
break up and the roads become unpropitious for exploratory adven- 
turers. 

Great however as are the acknowledged advantages of that perfect 
knowledi»e of the ('ountry, which 1 have ascribed to our Governor 
General, I consider them iuicrior to those which will accrue from his 
knowledge of the gtnius of its inhabitants. The military coup-d'oeil, 
the merely phvsicaJ knowledge is nv^re easily obtained, and re(|uires 
less natural talent, than the more difhcult science oi" national character ; 
and, when both are couibined in any Chiel], we may truly say, '^' he is 
himself an host." 

Without pretending to explain by what means Sir George 
Prevost has acquired his knewledge of the French Canadian cha- 
racter, we can all perceive the fact. It is obvious that he is no igno- 
rant ])retender, and that he perfectly knows their habits, and Iiow 
they should be treated. Their hereditaiy peculiarities are not yet e^ 



( 25 ) 

faced by a change of circiimstances and of government ; and the 
dignified but paternal condescendence of the Bourbons is, by him, 
successfuiiy imitated, and found congenidl to the feelings of the chiU 
(h"en of Normandy. That uiarkel solicitude of the Bourbon race, 
to be loved bj/ theit subjects and feared by their neighbours.) is evident- 
ly a characteristic, whic'i tiie t rench Caiiadians are rejoiced to per- 
ceive in their government ; and, as they have always been united to 
powerful nations, they have invariably cherished a corresponding 
self-esteem. Oa such grounds, I have often ventured to assert, that 
no part of the King's subjects, in Canada, would more powerfully 
second the efforts of the Provincial Administration to strengthen the 
Country, than the French Canadians, provided it could gain their 
fconfidence. Now that point seems happily gained ; and accordingly, 
at the present moment, none serins more prompt to hurl defiance at 
our foes, than the sprightly Canadian; In the MiHtia-service, he 
hasj to be sure, been a good deal humored and suffered to talk, sing 
and dance, in his usual vv^ay ; the endearing modes of address : " Mart 
enfant^ man frere^ mon aim,'''' &c. are scrupulously preserved ; his 
native officers and habitual patrons are approved in treating him with, 
all that mildness and winning solicitude for his welfare, which his 
characterj formed generally by extraordinary parental indulgence, 
requires. The Canadian, however, now obeys the word of command 
given in English ; he marches and dances to British music ; and, in 
short, he gradually acquires all those qualities which are calculated 
to render him useful and agreeable to his associates in British free- 
dom. 

But a secondary advantage^ as to tlie great cause of defence, 
Arising from the Governor's knowledge of the genius of the French 
Canadians, is the useful information, which he is thus enabled to 
obtain from that important )>art of our popuh'.tion. A sense of duty, 
or of interest alone, is hardly sufficient to bring them readily for- 
ward : much address may be required ; and nothing but that indes- 
cribable attention and interesting manner, the attributes of few, will 
succeed in securing the indefatigable efforts of the Canadian observer. 
Indeed the quick sensibiiity and natural fire of the Canadian render 
nice observation and much experience absolutely necessary in his 
successful leader ; whose presence of miiul and fertility of invention 
■ivill be continually employed in turning to advantage the disposition 
of his men,; 

Our veteran loyalists^ British Settlers and their descendants^ 
though differently, seem no less sagaciously treated by our Chief. 
Viewing them as deservedly proud of the name of Britons and de- 
fenders of British rights, he enters into no explanations ; but, sig^ 
nificantly pointing to the front of battle, he accompanies the gestur« 
with a few emphatic wordsj suitable to the occasion, 

D 



( 26 ) 

But that same knoivledg(? of the human heart, and of national 
character, wliich modifies his conduct and regnhitcs his confidence, 
with reji^ard to the Freucli Canadians, Loyalists, British Settlers and 
their descendants, enabling- him to employ, uith success, their uncon- 
querable cfTorts in defence ol' their Country, makes him ])robably 
view the individuals, recently emigrated from the United States, with 
painful anxiety. The most that the liberal-niindcd can say in favor 
of that portion of our population nui^t be of a negative description : 
— our enemies have avo\V(>diy depended so much upon assistan(^e to 
be received from tlieir countrymen established among us, that it seems 
almost impossible to discard suspicion and to view them as contribut- 
ing, in any degree, to the strength of the Canadas, in the present 
contest.* 



N° IX. 

Montreal, 23rd December, 1812.. 

Same Subject continued. 

In reflecting upon the important qualities of our Governor 
General, so intimately connected with our means of resisting the 
threatened invasion, we are naturally led to estimate highly " his 
" sagacitj/ in sdecting Jit characters, to exectde his designs^ The 
Governor's possession of this talent, is readily inferred from that 
knowledge of the genius of the inhabitants, which we have already 
proved his Excellency to possess ; but its exercise is materially mo- 
dified by the local and political circumstances of every British colony, 
and particularly by those of the Canadas. 

The necessary dependence of every Colonv upon the Parent 
State renders the government of the former essentially subordinate ; 
and the whole of its measures must necessarily be influenced and 
actuated by the general policy and interests of tiie supreme adminis- 
tration. From the clearest maxims of Political Qilconoir.y, as illus- 
trated by the practice of the wisest nations, the principal oflicers, 
civil and military, particularly in the executive branch, are appointed 
or approved by the administration of the Mother Country. Thus the 
immediate organs of communication between the chief and the su- 
bordinate governments are rendered as congenial as possible: and the 
best means are systematically employed to insure reciprocal confi- 
dence and utility. 

* See Note B at the end. 



( 27 ) 

But tlie peculiar circumstances of the rising- Colonies of the Ca- 
nadas, situated in the immediate vic-initj of independent States, have 
been a fartlier indiiceineiit to the British Government, to employ 
every expedient in order to secure that important portion of its do- 
minions and to attacli it strnnolv to the Parent State. The intended 
etfocts of such wise policy will be completely obtained, by tlie ap- 
pointmejit of men of distinguished talents tind reputation to colonial 
situations. 

Notwithstanding" all such restrictions and controlling forms, the 
powers of our Governor General in appointments to offices, civil and 
military, are really extensive, particularly in cases of emergency, 
wheji unlimited confidence, for a certain time, is necessarily placed 
in all his nominations and recommendations. 

Without pretending- to share in the confidence of the executive, 
let me here be permitted to hazard a few observations upon the ap- 
parent and proljable course of our Governor's policy, in his appoint- 
ments to civil and military emploj ments. 

Passing by what liad been done by his predecessors (which he 
would not lightly undo) it seems obvious, that natural born British 
Subjects have been the merited but not the exclusive objects of his 
confidence and patronage. When he found naturalised subjects long- 
possessed of places of trust and reputed worthy of their situations, 
those men of merit and talents readily acquired his confidence and 
esteem : and the history of the Country would fully evince to his un- 
prejudiced ujind that ejiiineut abilities of foreign growth had, in 
various circumstances, been employed with success in its preserva- 
tion and in-iprovement. — Eveiy foreigner who has fought in the ser- 
vice of the British Government is, of course, an object of its protec- 
tion : aud, along with his descendaats, has a legitimate claim to the 
confidence of our Cliief. 

In peaceable times likwise, the circumstances of these Colonies 
rendered places of profit rare and comparatively unimportant, while 
merely honorary though active situations in the magistracy, were 
rather avoided than sought, by enterprising Colonists. Thus many 
difficulties accrued in the appointment of persons completely qualified 
for certain emplovments; and we have accordingly experienced an 
inconvenience common to all new Countries. But although, at the 
present peculiar crisis, the imperfections of various incumbents may 
strike observers more forcibly than before, they will doubtless, upon 
reflection, be led to confess, that it would often be distressing to su- 
persede them. Indeed we have frequently occasion to remark, tliat 
our generous Chief bears with the infirmities ofthose ancient servants 
of their Country, sometimes allowing them deputies, and always 

D 2 



( 28 ) 

accepting with gincerc repret the renigiiations of tlicse ivho may be 
found more willing than able to render active service. 

But every necessary sacrifice to justice and generosity, as well 
as to circumstances of local situation ar^d family connection, can 
never obstruct the claims of real talents and unassuming merit to tlie 
countenance and encouragement of the Provincial A(hiiinistration. 
What a held for the exercise of the greatest and most amiable quali- 
ties is now before our Governor General ! How many experiments 
will occur to him, worthy of a benevolent and superior mind ! 

To be more particular, let us consider the real advantages, which 
will arise from exciting a laudable emulation among the young French 
Canadians, hitherto removed froni situations calculated to rouse the 
latent energies of thoir minds. Besides providing for immediate de- 
fence, the plans of our Chief seem wisely calculated for the perpetual 
security of the Country. A number of young men of family, intro- 
duced as officers into the proposed increase of select ircorporated 
Militia, will be quickly formed to the service, and gradually prepared 
to shine in the superior military raidvs. It seems particularly proper 
that an opportunity should be afforded for embracing the profession 
of arms, at an early period of life: for we haye daily experience to 
prove that manv individuals whose situations and fortune are the 
acknowledged passports to Militia-rank, are rendered very unfit by 
age or by confirmed habits of civil life, to perform the requisite duty 
with satisfaction to themselves or advantage to their Country. 

But let us not confine our view to the French Canadians, the 
majority of our population : let ns consider the room for discrimina- 
tion and sagacity, among the youth of the rest of the community. At 
a time when commerce is nearly anniiulaied, and when the y^mths 
attached to the liberal professions are unoccupied, the defence of the 
Country is the principal field of honorable exertion. In such circum- 
stances^ let the eye of the Go\ernor be only deemed watchful, and his 
ear always open, arid tlien the emulation of our generous youths will 
perform wonders. All who may be peculiarly fitted for a military 
life will irrevocably adopt it, while the rest will, for the prescribed 
period, energetically perform their duty, retiring afterwards, with 
honor, to their civil pursuits, though ready to resume the sword, at 
their Country's call. 

But besides military promotion, properly so called, the various ap- 
pointments in the Co'nunissariat and in other departments peculiar to 
a war-establishment, will furnish many opportunities to our Governor, 
to encourage modest merit, to reward fidelity, and liberally to extend, 
to all good subjects, their share of public benehts. When the people 
perceive the public expenditure wisely applied, and rewards con- 
ferred with impartiality upon the truly deserving, they bear aU bur- 



( 29 ) 

ihons witliont a murmur, and heartily acquiesce in every measure 
)iecessary for the support of what they thus clearly perceive to be a 
coiiiuion cause. 

But farther, the present Governor General appears inclined to 
act a holder part, than some of his predecessors. Though doubtless, 
succeeding-, aiono- with his oO.ice, to a certain mass of information and 
practical precepts, sufficient to limit a less intrepid and original 
genius, to the beaten tract of preceding- administrations, he has open' 
ed a new route ; he has viewed the Coimtn/ and its diversified population 
in a new light, and has most prohalilj/ judged for himsilf, divested of 
prejudice and untrammelled b^ routine. Upon this principle, 1 will 
suppose that many men, formerly treated with studied neglect, have 
appeared to him deserving of notice; many, represented as bad sub- 
jects, have seemed worthy of at least, one effort to reclaim them. 
To his enlarged mind, replete with resource, it may have appeared as 
possible as it was desirable to conciliate all those characters, who had 
been proved to possess considerable influence in the community, and 
to strengthen his administration with what had unfortunately served 
but to weaken that of his predecessors. Such experiments, at the 
present crisis, when the efforts of an undivided people are required to 
t-iave them from destruction, ought, in my humble opinion, to be view- 
ed with candour ; and the most jealous among us should stifle their 
complaints at sight of necessary sacrifices to internal imion and tran- 
quillity, and, (for aught they know) in some particular cases, to 
justice. While an isisidious enemy lurks upon oui frontiers, eager to 
profit by the oversights and blunders of self-sufficient administrations, 
we have no time to waste on punctilios ; and it will often be only 
common prudence to give a patient ear to imaginary grievances. 

To conclude, much of the sagacity employed by our Chief, in se- 
lecting fit characters to execute his designs, niust remain unknown to 
the public, they will have to judge of the whole of his exertions, by 
some peculiar traits; and, if they find increasing sadstaction in con- 
templating the ostensible agents of his will, they may safely give him 
equal credit for those who are unseen. We have all however already 
perceived and acknowledged the propriety with which the great 
landholders, the mercantile bodies, and generally all leading charac- 
ters, in both Provinces, have been called upon to rouse the energies 
of the Country. We have seen, with joy, that they have justified 
our Governor's confidence in their efforts ; and we look forward to 
the effects of the unabated zeal of the whole population, properly 
directed, as the principal means, under Providence, of obtaining a 
successful issue to a contest, all important to ourselves, and involving 
the interest and honor of the powerful Empire to which we belong. 



( 30 ) 

N°X. 

Montreal, 9tli. January, 1813, 

The Ci'oodnes.'i of our Cause, rendering us unanimous and strong 
against an Enemi/ zceakened frij disunion. 

I now be^ leave to call the attention of my readers to a few 
observations and facts regarding " the goodness of our eause, rendering- 
its unanimous and strong, against an enemy weakened hij disunion''' 

The well known sagacity of experienced nations and particularly 
of Britain, pointing out to her the importance of not increasing the 
number of her enemies, in the tremendous struggle which she is 
making against Napoleon, for the preservation of her deserved rank 
antongthe powers of the world, affords a strong presumption to 
unprejudiced minds, that she would instinctively avoid provoking 
the hostility of the United States. But we are not reduced to such 
an appeal to the feelings of the candid and confiding; for we have 
the direct evidence of recorded facts, evincing to the most sceptical 
ndnd, that long continued provocation, as well as final hostility has 
been the object systematically pursued by the present administration 
of the United States, that creature of the democratic faction, uniform^ 
ly subservient to motiarchical, republican and imperial France. 

The many unworthy characters who were brought into power 
and notice during that successful rebellion, which severed the British 
Colonies from the Parent State, remained embodied after the peace, 
and secretly enlisted under the power of France. The infatuated go- 
vernment of that Country, which had encouraged rebels and cherish- 
ed a spirit destined eventually to destroy itself, incessantly intrigued, 
in order to prevent the United States from performing the solemn 
engagement expressed in their Declaration of Independence, — to ; 
hoTd the British nation, as the rest of mankind, " enemies in war, | 
in peace, friends.^' \ 

Tn the slight review proposed to be taken of the conduct of the j 
French faction, in the United States, headed by Jefferson, Madison 1 
and Gerry, the first striking fact is the use which they made of the | 
injudicious articles inserted in the definitive treaty of 1783, forming 
a fallacious arrangement respecting the dpbts due, and the property 
belonging to British Subjects and loyalists. Those articles, the ful- 
filment of which depended upon the honorable dispositions of parti- 
cular States, not upon the efficient and authoritative measures of the 
general government, were successfully employed by the French fac- 
tion, then in the minority, to excite the worst passions of the Ameri- 
can people. 



( 31 ) 

But the feelings of dishonest debtors and unprincipled holders 
ftf property not their own, were rendered still more effectual in de- 
featino- every endeavor of Washington's administration, to do justice 
to Britain, by the jealousy of many well-meaning citizens, misled by 
faction. In consequence of dishonorable delay in fulfilling the arti- 
cles in question, the British government rightfully retained a number 
of military posts, upon the American frontier ; and that circumstance 
was unblushingly represented to the American people as a proof that 
Britain Avas secretly resolved to seize the first opportunity of reducing 
the United States to perpetual vassallage. 

While such base expedients were daily increasing sentiments un- 
friendly to Britain, Jefferson was preparing an experiment of com- 
mercial hostility against her. A Report, which, as Secretary of State, 
lie had framed upon the Commerce and Navigation of the United 
States (falsely representing the Regulations of Great Britain as 
inimical to their trade, and vainly endeavouring to prove that libera- 
lity was the attribute of France alone) developed his views to the 
world. Founded upon this notable State Paper (full of glaring- 
inconsistencies which even shamed their author into temporary re- 
tirement from office), his political subordinate and friend, Mr. Ma- 
dison, introduced into the House of Representatives, in Congress, in 
1794:, a string of Resolutions, calculated, under the veil of Municipal 
Regulations, to supplant the British, in favor of French Commerce. 
Their spirit breathed the most malignant hostility to the trade and 
manufactures of Britain ; and his speech upon the occasion contained 
the most atrocious sentiments. Speaking of the British manufactures, 
he said : " There are three hundred thousand souls, who live hy our 
" custom : let them be driven to poverty and despair, and what will be 
" the consequence ? Most probably an accession of so many useful 
" citizeiis to the United States." The encouragement which they 
recommended to domestic manufactures, in defiance of the prudent 
means laid down in Jefferson's Notes on Virginia, was only a lure 
to the artisans in the United States, who were daily increasing by 
emigration from Europe, and were then considered worthy of enlist- 
ment, under the banners of the French faction. 

But the sagacity and firmness of Washington's administration 
prevented the triumph of Jeffersonian policy upon that occasion ; 
and the liberality of Britain powerfully seconded the American go- 
vernment, in its efforts to preserve neutrality and peace. The com- 
mercial treaty, concluded by Lord Grenville and Mr. Jay, in 1794, 
after a negociation which removed every cause of irritation between 
both nations, secured to the United States the way to wealth, in 
spite of the machinations of the tools of France. 

At length, the vessel of state " in the full tide of successful 
experimwt" was left by Washington and his immediate successor; to 



( 32 ) 

the care of jefterson, who assumed the helm, in 1801. Then began 
that dereliction of the manly conduct of his predecessors in ofiice, 
which marked the baseness of his soul. A mysterious declining of 
the responsibility attached to patronising important measures, under 
the deceptive appearance of false modesty and humility concealed the 
dark design of making a deluded people the destroyers of their ho- 
nor, respectability and peace. 

Among the first acts of Jefferson's administration, affecting Great 
Britain in particular, was such an application of the principle of 
American naturalization (always equivocal) as discovered his rooted 
hostility. The election of Jefferson to the Presidency has, with 
much reason, been ascribed to the machinations of malcontent re- 
fugees from the British Islands ; and, as the means of increasing and 
rendering stable that power which he had obtained, he procured an 
almost immediate and unconditional naturalization and share of 
legislation to foreign interlopers, the well known supporters of 
France and of French principles; 

Having thus established his own power and that of his faction, 
by the deterioration of the national character of America, he was 
prepared to take every opportunity of indulging his depraved poli- 
tical propensities^ — his predilection in favor of France, and his pre- 
judice against Great Britain. During his administration, Bonaparte 
might trifle with the safety, interest and honor of the United States^ 
with impunity. He might wrest Louisiana from vassal Spain, in 
order to hang upon their skirts, though ostensibly for the purpose of 
supplying the French West Indies ; and when the power of Great 
Britain seemed likely to render his open and concealed designs nu- 
gatory, he could find in the object ofhis encroachments, a complaisant 
purchaser of the ill-gotten and, to him, useless? territory. The 
rebellious and and disaffected subjects of Ireland were allured to 
the United States, and there cherished at the expense of the ruling 
faction ; while the casual supply of provisions to the revolted French 
Slaves in Saint Domingo, was branded by the hypocrite as dishonor- 
able to the American name. During his administration, American 
commerce was left unprotected, and every means studiously with- 
drawn, which could enable the United States to support the law of* 
nations and to preserve their previous rank among the civilized 
powers. They thus appeared to the world fit tools for that bellige- 
rent whose only mode of revenge and hosti-ity against Britain, for 
her naval superiority and resistance to his insatiable ambition, was 
reduced to £l vain attempt to destroy her commerce and to enslave thei 
Continent of Europe. And rjoon did Napoleon resolve to make them 
drink deep of tlie cup of humiliation^ which he perfectly knew their 
dastardly unprincipled governtneiit couM not, cv would not remove. 
While the Ministers of AmetidR, Monroe and Pinckney, are iiego- 
«9iating a fevorahle Comuierciai Tieat/j at Loudon, J>fapoieon tells 



1 



i 



( 33 ) 

lier, tiiat tio will suffer no neutrals ; and, shortly ^ftei*, Intoxicated 
Ivitii his success against Prussia, he issues his bitrbarous decrees, 
makiu^ it a public crime, in any nation, to trade with Britain. From 
that principle of self-preservation which is essential to the existence 
of every State, Britain, at length, warns the United States of their 
dutyj and claims their exertioiis in support of the ancient and ac- 
knowhldged riglits of nations, the foundation of all commerce and 
civilization. But Britain called in vain ; and she was eventually 
obliged to do herself justice, by declaring the dominions of France 
in a state of blockade, thus retaliating with such mildness as showed 
her reluctance to injure Neutrals, but at the same time with such 
dignity as her rank required. Tiie unavoidable pressure of those 
measures upon America was calculated to awaken her to a sense of 
honor and true interest, and consequently to stimulate her to assist 
in forcing the Tyrant to repeal his Decrees and thus remove the 
British Orders in Council. But such manly policy was far from the 
thoughts of Jefl'erson. Rejecting the British Commercial Treaty, 
and unable or unwilling to draw forth the united resources of his 
Country, in defence of the rights of nations, he thinks to blind his 
fellow citizens and the world by a dereliction of all commerce with 
foreign climes, pretending that his Embargo was the only means of 
preserving the essential resources of America, from the rapacity of 
France and Great Britain. But the equivocal guise of that measure 
■Vvas marked by the world; and its injurious effects were perceived 
to be levelled at England, though the cowardly blow recoiled upon 
the hand which gave it* 

At last^ the people of America eould ilo longer endure " that 
" cutting off of their commerce from all parts of the world''' The 
Northern States particularly exerted themselves for emancipation ; 
and, after much tergiversation, the general government repealed the 
Embargo Act, replacing it with a law taking effect 15th March, 1809, 
which enacted non-intercourse with France and Great Britain, as 
the means of obtaining, by commercial restrictions, the repeal of 
the French Decrees and British Orders in CounciL 

Het-e ended the administration of Jefferson, who was succeeded 
by his political son Mr. Madison ; and hitherto the policy of both has, 
in like circamstance«, been peculiarly resembling. The same war in 
disguise against England, and abject submission to the wrongs and 
robberies of France -^ the same " cunningly devised fables/' to delude 
the unthinking multitude, distinguished both. But increasing pre- 
tensions to neutral rights (without the least efforts to perform neutral 
duties, or to resume that respectability which a federal navy and 
federal policy, under Wa-;hIn-^ton and Adams procured,) have been 
most remarkable during Madison's reign* 



( 34 ) 

Passing by L'rskine's unwarrantable arrangement and the mission 
of Mr. Jackson, l)oth wliicli afforded fresh causes of irritation, in the 
hands of the ridijjg- faction, we may advert, to the many subtilties of 
a protracted negociation between the American minister, Mr. Pinck- 
ney, and the INIarquis ^Velleslej; into which was officiously mingled 
tt ptrplexing- variety of grievances unavoidably incident to a Neutral, 
unprotected by its miserable ^ovennnent, during a loiL^r aiid embit- 
tered contest between tiie rival r.ations of i']iuoj}e. Tiie Mini-^ter of 
France had only to write a letter promising a repeal of the Berlin 
and Milan Decrees on vague, impracticable, and inadmissible con- 
ditions, in order to procure from the American Government, a re- 
liewal of commercial intercourse and fartluir demonstrations of 
hostile intentions towards IJriiain. During the whole of the discus- 
sion respecting the pretended repeal of the Berlin and Milan De- 
crees, we perceive on the part of Madison an unbounded confidence 
in the assertions of Bonaparte ; and such proofs occur of partiality 
to the tyrant as must reduce every candid observer to the alternative 
of believing the American Government, either really acting in collu- 
sion with France, or at least as considering Great liritaiu capable of 
beitig intimidated by manawcres, indicating an intention to take an 
iindisguised part in the European contest. 

At length, in the course of ISll, we early suspected that the 
mission of Mr. Foster would produce no satislactory arrangement : 
we saw nothing but a display of diplomatic dexterity on the part of 
the American cabinet ; and we have now found, that, while they 
were amusing us with negociation, they were secretly preparing th®se 
unworth}^ expedients intended to excite the alarm against Great 
Britain, by ascribing to her views incompatible with the union and 
independence of the States. 

For many months however before tlie declaration of war, the 
constituted authorities of the Canadas, so nearly interested in the 
state of relations between both powers, were gradually preparing 
for the result ; though their inclinations at times induced them to 
cherish tlie hopes of peace. Their confidence in the peaceable pro- 
fessions of the United States' Government entirely failed, when they 
heard of their base attempts upon the friendly Province of East 
Florida; while the unjust war begun against the oppressed Indian 
Tribes, induced them to view the administration of Madisoii as re- 
solved to bring into action those principles of unjustifiable aggran- 
disement v>hich had been gradually developed, in the debates of 
Congress. It likewise readily occurred, that the conquest of the 
Canadas, must enter into any plan of the ruling faction, to humble 
Jtngland ; for those I'rovinces had become gradually important to 
her: and they were besides considered as the best lure to the cupidity 
of some of the neighboring Stales, particularly Vermont, which had 
often vainly boasted of its ability aud inclination to conquer thi» 
Country, even at its owu expense. 



( 35 ) 
N'' XI. 
Montreal, 30th January, 181^» 

Same Subject continued. 

From the facts and observations contained in my Number, dated 
9ih last., descriptive of the course of policy pursued by the rulinj^ 
taction in i\\e United States, it might naturally l>e concluded, that 
their avowed causes of war against Great JJritain would be false and 
frivolous. Tiiat upon which Madison placed the greatest emphasis, 
and which he painted in tjie most g larins; colours, in his warlike 
message to Cong-ress, was, the Orders in Council, issued by England 
in retaliation of Xapaieon's barbarous decrees; vvhile the Impress- 
ment of Seamen figured only as a secondary ground of hostility. The 
conciliatory spirit of our Country ,^ however, having- produced a repeal 
of the Orders in Council, as far as they affected the United States, 
our base opponents now pretend to discover ail the evils of Pandora's 
Box, in our exercise of the aneient and acknowledged right of injpress- 
ing British seamen^ found on board of neutral merchant vessels in 
time of tear. 

The nature of this perfect right, its primary importance to our 
Parent Stats, and the mode in which it has been exercised by her, 
have ])een lately so well discussed in the Quebec Gazette,* that I 
shall here introduce only a few general remarjvs upon the subject, in 
order to coimect it witii my plan, referring, foi* pa,rticulars, to that 
Paper. 

From all that I have l)een able to learn on the subject of our 
right of impressment, I am fully convinced that the United States* 
Government have no real cause of complaint. In fact, this appears 
to be one of their fovourite means of deceiving and inflaming the 
American people, affording frequent occasions to misrepresent and 
exaggerate the character and numbers of the individuals taken out of 
their trading vessels. The ruling faction in the United States may, 
at ail events, be safely challenged to prove to the world, that, during 
their nominal neutrality, any native American was retained, by force, 
on board of our vessels of war, by the orders or with the connivance 
of our Government. The contrary practice of dismissing all such 
individuals from British ships of war, is so notorious, that it would 
be an insult to the memories and to the uiulerstandings of my readers, 
after recent discussions, to dilate upon the subject. 

It certainly requires much courtesy and temper, to discuss, without 
* See the Quebec GazeUe for December and January last : " Questiou of Impressment,"' 

E 2 



( ^(^ ) 

obliquy and passion, the unworthy policy of our enomy, and to trace, 
without givina; full play to natural feelings, the insidious opproaches 
oilhut u'o/f in s/i(ep\s\/alliing, towdvd^ our hannh^ss folds. Thank 
God! the shepherds were vigiliuit ; and their decisive conduct <|!iickly 
forced the beast of pre// to throw otf all disguise, and to appear in his 
native character of cowardice and cruel rapacity. 

Prepared as Me now are to view the foe in his true colours, and 
to appreciate the real cause of <piarrel, we have but little to fear. 
Facts and experience have clearly proved to the Canadians, that in 
the present war, they must continue to defend all that makes life 
desirable, against a ihe deiicient in civil and military virtues. When we 
go forth to the battle against such an enemy, devoid of that magnani- 
mity and that moderation in victory, which liabits of success and strict 
discipline alone can produce, we ought to resolve to prefer deatli to 
defeat, — extermination, to the idea of dragging out a resnuant of 
existence, exposed to the tyranny and scorn of numberless upstarts. 
When we reflect upon the avowed policy and conduct of the rulers 
and generals of the United States, and upon the genius and circum- 
stances of the subordinate agents of their will, we become convinced 
that the expected contest will be very similar to that of a peaceable 
householder against a baud of nocturnal robbers. 1 will maintain, 
that our feelings, upon the occasion, should resemble those of an 
honest man attacked, in the dwellings of his fathers, by a banditti, as 
poor, rapacious and insatiable as any '- band of tierce barbarians 
from the hills, rushing like a torrent down upon the vales, sweeping- 
flocks and herds." 

But let us endeavour calmly to consider what we shall be called 
upon to defend: First, the honour of oiu- Country; — our enemy has, 
for years, employed every insulting epitliet which language could 
furnish against (ireat Britain : his venal presses, conducted by rene- 
g-adoes, in defiance of history and experiejice, continually accuse her 
of bad faith and boundless oppression ; — and shall our Country's 
honor not rouse us to action ? This however will only be a collateral 
cause. American demagogues bring the war, after long vilitying our 
Parent State, and degrading our own character into that of disaflect- 
ed subjects, they advance to inflict the last outrage upon honorable 
feeling, by ottering to protect us as Hritish rebels ! Yes, they will 
kindly conquer our Country from Britaifi, and make us pay (he ex- 
pence of winning and preserving it. They will deign to suff'er one 
part of us to fight by their side ; anotfieV to make their roads and 
canals, or to drain their marsiies and clear their lands ; a third to hew 
wood and draw water for them. Yes, Countrymen, the above is but 
a faint j)icture of what we might expect from that weak, cowardly, 
cruel and suspicious faction, which threatens to reduce us to the 
wretched situation of the remnant of the ancient population of Loui- 
siana. 



( 57 ) . 

When their base myrsmidons therefore dare to violate the asylum 
of loyalty, virtue and true courage, let them be met with those feelina^s 
and energies whicli a sacred cause shoukl inspire. Let every man 
think, that his individual efforts nmy happily contribute to maintain 
the honor of the King whom he loves, and to preserve from pollution 
all those bh^ssings, wliich the God whoin he adores has bestowed : 
— r^et him think, that, in no circumstances, can h.is person be more 
meritoriously exposed, than in defending the I^eligion, the Laws, the 
Property, — the conmion benefits of Britons. 

Impressed with such ideas, we shall form a sacred band, capable 
of contending against far greater numbers of men, who cannot possi- 
bly have motives of equal power to stimulate them to deeds of valour. 
TJie man who fights in defensive war seems inspired by Heaven, with 
a peculiar energy and firmness, which love of plunder and desire of 
revenge, the ordinary motives of assailants, can never produce. We 
shall individually act from a lasting conviction of necessity ; the na- 
tional cause will be felt as personal, by each of us. Our invaders, on 
the contrary, supposing them regular troops, will act mostly in obe- 
dience to the temporary impulse of a leader's command. But, farther, 
w hat are those mercenaries ? Are they not chiefly emigrants from all 
countries, trepanned into the service ? and can such men, in military 
virtues, ever become equal to British Subjects and Soldiers, defending 
their families, their lives, their property and their Country's honor ? 

But the men with wliom Ave are commonly menaced are raw volun- 
teers ; — vain youngsters generally, who talk of a battle as they would 
ot some frolic, — who all v* ish to command, but have never learned to 
obey, and whom the sligtesi disaster will force to reflect upon the 
folly and wickedness of an enterprise, for which not one rational or 
laudable motive can be alledged. It is indeed no trivial advantage 
on our side, that the more we consider the nature of our cause, the 
more shall we prize it ; while reflection must disgust our enemy with 
his. Though vain-glory may dazzle his sqldiers at first, time and 
experience will soon dissipate its false lustre, changing their eager- 
ness into apathy ; and, instei^d of fighting desperately for Canadian 
plunder, they may possibly pillage their employers. 

To conclude, in every contest, our enemies' weakness constitutes 
apart of our strength; and, when we reflect upon the various and 
conflicting opinions and interests which prevail among the people of 
the United States, we may be allowed to doubt whetlier any cause 
except that of defending their friends could heartily unite them. No 
such cause characterises on their part the present war ; and accord- 
ingly in its declaration and prosecution I have hitherto viewed them 
as necessarily a divided people. But let us be prepared for the worst 
that can be feared from the malignit?/ of the American Government ; 
eind let us thank God, that, if wc must shed human blood, it shall noi 



( 38 ) 

he for vain-g'loiy, but in defence of the dearest rights of liumanlty, — 
in a cause, which, appearing; in every lijfht, to deserve succc»s, may, 
without presun)ption, be expected to obtain it. 

i 



N° XII. 



Montreal, ilth February, 181^. 

General Recapitulation and Conclusion. 

The present Number \vill serve to recapitulate the loading ideas 
which my own meditations, and an attention to public liieting and 
to passing- events have produced, since 1 began to assist in exciting- 
enquiry into our means of resisting menaced invasion. 

Till ascertained by facts, the vigorous efforts of Britain in order 
to protect us, must be inferred from her transcendent reputation for 
enlightened policy and national honor ; from her powerful exertions 
in our behalf during tlie American rebellion ; and from the apparent 
facility with which her vast resources and naval superiority, enable 
her to perform the important duty of defending her distant dependen- 



cies. 



The means likely to be employed have been suggested, such as a 
reinforcement of at least Ten Thousand regular troops, with the usual 
accompaniments and supplies, and a formidable fleet, to blockade the 
enemy's principal sea-ports, and to keep his whole coast in alarm. 
In addition to those, we have a right to expect, that numerous ex- 
pedients will be adopted by such a powerful and experienced nation 
as Britain, Avhen called upon, by her dearest interests and sacred 
honor, to a vigorous prosecution of the war; and, in short, that her 
whole course of measures will be eminently calculated to paralise the 
efforts and destroy the resources, of the present weak and worthless 
administration of the United States. 

After thus laying the proper stress upon the powerful protection 
of the Parent State, the attention of my Readers was called to a view 

o^^'- the internal resources of the Canadas, arising from the character 
of their population and institutions, their local situations and other 
circumstances." 

Patriotism and military spirit were ascribed to the French 
Canadians, as proved by a reference to the history of their Country, 
and to the acknowledged characteristics of every people in similar 



( 39 ) 

circumstances. It was sng-gested with dclorence that the principal ad- 
vantage to be drawn from that important part of our population, 
would be found in their aptitude for partisan warfare ; and that, in no 




serted to be admirably calculated to call forth the whole energies of 
the French Canadians, in defence of their Country; and the sources 
of their well-founded antipathy to the American Governnientj were 
carefully explored. 

The character of tlie rest of the population of both Provinces was 
afterwards reviewed ; and their feelings and interests were considered 
as promising- what has strikingly appeared during the late campaign ; 
an invincible energy in rallying round the government and in promot- 
ing its measures. The loyalists, British settlers and their descendants, 
in Upper Canada, have had glorious opportunities of contributing to 
defend their country and the honor of their King-, against the worst 
enemies of both. 

The advantages derivable from the local situation of the Canadas 
were next adverted to. A knowledge of the best military posts and 
positions was ascribed to the Provincial Government ; and anticipa- 
tions are hazarded of various precautions and expedients, commonly 
employed against an invading- force. An attention to all such posts 
and positions as had once been chosen and fortified by French En- 
gineers was humbly recommended, as well as a careful study of the 
conduct and events of the French and English campaigns in this 
Country. 

The internal resources of the Canadas, with respect to provisions 
were slightly inspected ; and inferences were drawn favorable to their 
ability, with a reasonable degree of aid from Britain, to furnish sub- 
sistence, during a long war. Our native supplies of timber, iron and 
hemp, all necessary for the building of a river-flotilla, were justlj 
considered of great importance. 

After a passing remark upon the necessity of unceasing protection 
and encouragement to the internal trade of the Country, I began, 
with a trembling hand, to sketch my expectations from the personal 
character and influence of our Governor General, in doing which 
I attempted, though in vain, by glowing colours, to display the 
enchusiasm of the whole population, as manifested on every occasion, 
bv addresses and other publications, as well as by oral expression. 
While performing this interesting part of my task, a variety of 
pinions feU insensibly from my pen, which marked the spirit of the 
times, and were found congenial to tUe general feeling. 



(40) 



Then came a flelcctlon of facts, illustrative of " tJie goodness of 
entr rouse^ rendering us unanimous and strong aguinst an enemy weak- 
rnrd hy disunion.'' The provoking policy of the democratic faction^ 
in the IJuited .States, was traced from the peace of 1783, to the late 
tleclaration of war ; and its invariable subserviency to France, under 
every form of oovernnient, was attempted to be pourtrayed. And 
now, after my late display of the peculiar feelinfijs which the goodness 
of our cause seems calculated to inspire, let me hasten to the conclu- 
sion of the whole speculation. 

From all that has been brouojht for\Vard upon the present occa- 
•ion, I shall take upon myself to submit to my Readers the following' 
inferences, facts and opinions : 

F' — Great Britain is morecapflble of defending distant dependen- 
cies, than any other nation mentioned in history ; and we have every 
reason to believe, that she is as willing* as she is able to protect this 
Country. 

gnd — fijg Canadas, containing a patriotic population of foni* 
hundred and fifty thousand souls, and possessing many advantages in 
soil, agriculture, commerce and local situation, have consequently 
internal resources and means of resistance superior to most of the 
other British Colonies* 

grd — ^pj^g resources drawn from the Parent State, on the scale of* 
a peace establishment, and those derived from this Country, have, by 
skilful management, been found adequate to render abortive repeated 
attempts to invade these Provinces ; and, particularly in Lower Cana- 
da, the late campaign was " honorahly terminated, without effusion of 
^' blood, without loss of territory, and without interruption to the most 
" important habits of peace, by a recourse to martial law^ 

4'*'— "As a contrast to the zeal, docility and confidence, dis- 
played by our soldiers and armed population, the armies of the 
iJnited States, during the present contest have fre([uently shown a 
spirit of insubordination; and, while the talents and judicious ar- 
rangements of our Governor General and his officers have been fully 
evinced, incapacity has been seen to prevail in the land-service of* 
our enemy, through every department* 

5"*' — Projects of unjustifiable aggrandizment being now com- 
pletely devoloped on the part of the United States' Government, at 
salutary jealousy and vigilance will be henceforth cherished by the 
administration of the Parent State: and they will doubtless never 
expose this Country again to the possibility of being at least partial!/ 
occupied by an .ejaem^ that tould briujf au army of J0,000 meii. 



( 41 ) 

6"" — I^iom such considerations, it may be fairly supposed, that 
even were tiie people of the United States unanimously resolved to 
attack the Canadas, tiie conquest must be purchased at a rate far 
bevond its value to them. It is indeed more than probable that 
Britain is both able and m illing to defend these Provinces, for ever, 
Hi^ainst the united strength of all her foes. The possession of this 
Country even as a military post, \vould be worthy of the ambition 
of a great maritime po^ver ; and, after the case of Gibraltar, we 
nia)^ prognosticate the fate of Quebec, and, in general, reckon upon 
a firm adherence to the policy of defending to the last extremity, 
everv distant establisluuent, associated in the minds of Britons, with 
national glory and commercial greatness. 

7''' — The Canadas should be always vieived in conjunction with 
the whole of the Transatlantic dominions of Britain ; in wiiich light 
thev assume a much higher degree of importance than if otherwise 
considered. Particularly durini^ hostilities Avith the United States, 
the supplies generally furnished to the British West Indies and New- 
foundland fisheries, by the Canadas and by the other British North-^ 
America Colonies, become doubly valuable ; and consequently the 
efforts of the Parent State should be vigorously and promptly applied, 
in order to prevent that interruption to agriculture, commerce and 
inland navigation, which the mere apprehension of invasion is suf- 
ficient to produce. 

gt^' — The British North-American Colonies and particularly the 
Canadas, by the enlightened policy of the Mother Country, have been 
gradually raised to importance, — affording a growing market to Bri- 
tish manufactures, extensive employment to British Shipping, Seamen 
and Capital, — furnishing likewise valuable supplies of naval stores ; 
— and, in short, by their general industry and commerce, materially 
contributing to the national power, revenue and splendor of the 
Parent State. 

gth — From the above view of the colonial importance of this 
Country, it may be reasonably expected, that the Government of the 
British Empire will not confine their exertions to the mere prevention 
of its conquest ; but, that ihey zcill extend such powerful protection as 
may enable the majority of the male population to preserve the habits 
and exercise the arts of peace. 

IQth—The most likely means of obtaining those ends, are, suck 
an establishment of regular troops as would preclude any fears of a 
temporary occupation of any part of our territory ; — such a defence of 
the navigation of the Saint Lawrence as would render the lumber and 
provision trade practicable y — such a navy upon the lakes as would insure 
the superiorty to Britain i^and, lasltly^ such a vigorous prosecution of 

F 



( 42 ) 

ihe war, upon the enemy's coast, as, by destrof/ing his trade, interrupting 
his industr/y, cxhansling his resources, and harassing his troops, must 
inevitably reduce him to reasonable terms, in a few months, or, at feast, 
give him full cmplojjment in defending his oxen, instead of attaching 
another Cuuntrj/. 

A QUERIST. 



Note A. Page 20. 



April 10, 181 



It is therefore with the utmost satisfaction, that the Querist has 
seen the Campaiji^n of 1813, opened by the destruction of the important 
fortress of Ogdensburg. This measure was equally politic in its plan, 
and brilliant in its issue. The fortunate result, for which we are 
indebted to a handful of brave men, promises to secure, durino- the 
remainder of the camp9ign, the free and uninterrupted communication 
of the two provinces ; rendering- the conveyance of all sorts of stores, 
ammunition, troops, and even commerce, almost as safe as before the 
commencement of hostilities. — The fi-ee and lunnolested navigation of 
the Saint Lawrence below Quebec, we may depend on, as a necessary 
consequence of tlie superior naval armament on the coast, and of that 
part of it which we may reasonably expect to extend to the gulf. 



Note B. Page 26. 

April 10, 1813. 

To these reasons for confidence in the Chief under whom we have 
the good fortune to be placed, I cannot omit this opportunity of add- 
ing another. 

Nothing affords a stronger proof of the true greatness of a cha- 
racter, than a liberal and magnanimous line of conduct towards those 
who are necessarily to be considered as enemies, and against whose 
hostile encroachments the most vigorous measures must be pursued. 
The illiberal treatment of an enemy in those circumstances in which 
it can neither add to our own strength, nor to his weakness, has 
always been justly esteemed a feature of inferior characters. The 
taleiits that are fitted to govern with wisdom, to defend a country 
from foreign aggression, and to secure the approbation of posterity, 
are never knowii, even while they repel every attack with judgment 
and decision, either to injure the defenceless, or insult the conquered. 



( 43 ) 

In this respect, I cannot too strongly express my approbation of 
the conduct which Sir George Prevost has uniformly pursued towards 
the private subjects of the United States. The treatment shown to 
those who happened, in pursuit of commercial purposes, or otherwise, 
without any ill design, to be in the Province at the time of the 
declaration of war, was liberal and even indulgent. In proof of this, 
I need only refer to the difterent Proclamations, which extended, time 
after time, the period fixed for their removal; evincing a solicitous 
attention to their circtimstances, and to the friendly purposes for which 
they had entered the Province : and iinally leaving it in their power 
to remain oa the most easy conditions possible in the present state of 
affairs. 

The treatment experienced, in like manner, by the numerous 
prisoners who have been taken, has been worthy of a great and aii 
enlightened power. The polite attention shown to the American 
officers, and the humane treatment experienced by the prisoners, are 
well known ; and, notwithstanding some unworthy returns, it is 
hoped, will never be discontinued. Although this liberality has, in 
some cases, been ungenerously returned, and, in one instance, shame- 
fully denied,* and the contrary charge set up ; such an accusation 
falls light on the brazen shield of conscious integrity and unsullied 
honor. 

It is curious to observe how generally the Americans have branded 
our fighting in concert Avith the Indians, as an alliance shocking to 
humanity ; while nothing can be more certain, than that the sole 
effect of this connection, is to save the lives of our enemies. As the 
Indians, as well as zee, must defend themsehes ; the only consequence 
of their fighting in a different field from us, Avould be, that, according 
to their received customs, they would tomahawk all who might come in 
their way, sparing neither age, sex, nor condition, nor listening to any 
terms of surrender. As things are, the presence and authority of a 
British force, secures the lives of all who are defenceless, and all 
who surrender. For thus saving the lives of our enemies, we are 
branded as unchristian, and threatened with extermination. 

Such humane endeavors, on the part of our Commander, on the 
part of his oflicers and men, to soften the furious rage of war, and of a 
war into which Ave were forced in spite of eveiy effort to preserve 
peace, can never be too highly admired, noi too confidently praised. 

* See the Montreal Herald for April 10, on " American geoerosily." 



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